On April 3, 2026, SM Entertainment announced that Mark Lee would be leaving NCT and the agency, a decision that sparked widespread concern among fans. Just three days later, TEN's departure was confirmed, with his exclusive contract ending on April 8, 2026. While discussions about TEN's future involvement in NCT and WayV may continue, the recent exits have intensified fears regarding the stability of the groups. Fans have noted that several other NCT members are also nearing contract expirations throughout 2026, including Johnny in January and Yuta, Winwin, and Haechan in July. As the timeline for contract renewals approaches, many fans worry that these departures could lead to a complete disbandment of NCT Dream by summer 2026. In response to the news, both Mark and TEN expressed gratitude for their experiences with SM Entertainment and their respective groups, emphasizing their desire to pursue new creative opportunities. Mark reflected on his ten-year journey, while TEN shared his appreciation for the support he received throughout his career. SM Entertainment has reassured fans of its ongoing support for the remaining members and their future activities.